The Young Leaders for Wild Florida stand outside of the County Commission of Bradford County, Florida, after four of them testified to the Commissioners against a proposed phosphate mine that would threaten North Florida’s Santa Fe River. For the second year in a row, the Young Leaders explored the Santa Fe and learned about its unique natural springs, then designed their own advocacy campaign against the proposed mine. The Young Leaders have continued their advocacy for the river after the summer program, helping organize protests and planning a multi-day paddle of the river.
As part of their daily activities in local wild areas, The Young Leaders for Wild Florida joined Americorps to remove invasive species in Payne’s Prairie Preserve, near Gainesville, Florida, while learning about opportunities in land stewardship.
Mia Borkoski, one of the Young Leaders for Wild Florida, testifies against a proposed phosphate mine to Bradford County Commission. She shared how her Christian values have motivated her to become an environmentalist concerned for Florida’s water.
